Haemodialysis and testicular function.

Gonadal dysfunction in men with chronic renal failure is well established. However, the effect of haemodialysis on the function of the testis has not been studied in detail, so we have investigated the effect of haemodialysis by measuring the plasma levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, SHBG binding capacity and salivary levels of testosterone. Plasma levels of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and salivary testosterone levels were significantly lower in patients on haemodialysis than in controls. There was also a reduction in 5 alpha-reductase activity as evidenced by a reduced 5 alpha DHT/T ratio. SHBG levels were comparable to those found in eugonadal men. No differences were found in the parameters studied before and after 6 h haemodialysis. It is concluded that haemodialysis is not of obvious benefit to gonadal function.